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Laser Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Laser Process Engineer / Scientist

Hickory, NC · On-site

$102K - $141K/yr

Role Purpose Corning is seeking a Laser Process Engineer/Scientist to design, develop, and scale advanced laser-based processes -- from early-stage experimentation through prototype deployment -- in ...

Corning

Laser Process Engineer / Scientist

Hickory, NC · On-site

$102K - $141K/yr

Role Purpose Corning is seeking a Laser Process Engineer/Scientist to design, develop, and scale advanced laser-based processes - from early-stage experimentation through prototype deployment - in ...

Corning

Laser Process Engineer / Scientist

Hickory, NC

$102K - $141K/yr

Role Purpose Corning is seeking a Laser Process Engineer/Scientist to design, develop, and scale advanced laser-based processes - from early-stage experimentation through prototype deployment - in ...

Corning

Senior Laser Process Engineer / Scientist

Hickory, NC · On-site

$93K - $120K/yr

Role Purpose Corning is seeking a Senior Laser Process Development Engineer/Scientist to drive early-stage development of advanced laser processes and optical solutions. You'll combine deep technical ...

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Laser Process Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$112.1K

$188K

How much do laser process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for laser process engineer in the United States is $112,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,500.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Laser Process Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Laser Process Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science, physics, or engineering, often supported by a related bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with laser systems, CAD software, and process control tools, as well as certifications in laser safety, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure precise process development, safe operation, and successful collaboration on high-precision manufacturing projects.

What does a Laser Process Engineer do?

A Laser Process Engineer is responsible for developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting processes that use lasers in manufacturing or research environments. They work with laser systems to cut, weld, engrave, or modify materials, ensuring efficiency, quality, and safety. Their role often involves collaborating with design, production, and quality teams to implement and improve laser-based applications, as well as maintaining equipment and writing technical documentation. Laser Process Engineers may also conduct experiments to determine best practices and support the integration of new laser technologies.

What are some typical challenges a Laser Process Engineer faces when developing new laser applications?

Laser Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as optimizing process parameters to achieve precise results, ensuring consistent quality across different materials, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Working closely with cross-functional teams—like design, quality, and manufacturing—is common to address these issues efficiently. Continuous learning is vital, as new laser technologies and materials frequently emerge, requiring ongoing adaptation and innovation. Successfully overcoming these challenges helps engineers advance to senior roles or specialize further within the field.

What is the difference between Laser Process Engineer vs Laser Manufacturing Technician?

AspectLaser Process EngineerLaser Manufacturing Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications in laser technologyHigh school diploma or associate degree, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentDesign, optimize, and troubleshoot laser processes in labs or production settingsOperate and maintain laser equipment on the manufacturing floor
Industry UsageUsed across industries like aerospace, automotive, electronicsPrimarily in manufacturing plants for assembly and fabrication
Job FocusProcess development, improvement, and technical problem-solvingEquipment operation, routine maintenance, and quality checks

The main difference between a Laser Process Engineer and a Laser Manufacturing Technician lies in their roles and responsibilities. The engineer focuses on developing and optimizing laser processes, requiring higher education and technical expertise. In contrast, the technician operates and maintains laser equipment, often with less formal education but essential hands-on skills for daily manufacturing tasks.

More about Laser Process Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Laser Process Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Laser Process Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Laser Process Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Laser Process Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Laser Process Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Laser Process Engineer jobs are:
Laser Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Laser Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,096 per year, or $53.9 per hour.
Laser Process Engineer / Scientist

Laser Process Engineer / Scientist

Corning

Hickory, NC • On-site

$102K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 76144

The company built on breakthroughs. ​  
Join us.​                                      

                                        

Corning is one of the world’s leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what’s possible.  ​  

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations – not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward. ​  

​At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.​   

​Come break through with us.  


Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry.This segment is classified into two main product groupings – carrier network and enterprise network. The carrier network product group consists primarily of products and solutions for optical-based communications infrastructure for services such as video, data and voice communications. The enterprise network product group consists primarily of optical-based communication networks sold to businesses, governments and individuals for their own use.

Role Purpose

Corning is seeking a Laser Process Engineer/Scientist to design, develop, and scale advanced laser-based processes — from early-stage experimentation through prototype deployment — in support of next-generation manufacturing and optical technologies. We welcome both experienced industry professionals and candidates whose graduate research included hands-on work in laser processing, optics, photonics, or related process development fields.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design and develop laser-based processes and optical systems, including free-space optics using refractive and reflective components, for potential deployment across Corning facilities
  • Build and evaluate benchtop and semi-automated prototype stations to demonstrate and validate new process concepts
  • Establish process windows through structured experimentation, characterization, data analysis, and statistical methods; interpret results and recommend corrective actions and follow-up experiments
  • Troubleshoot prototype equipment, tooling, and process-related issues
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering and research teams to solve complex technical challenges
  • Document technical guidelines, best practices, and novel concepts for potential patent submissions
  • Design and develop tooling and fixtures supporting new product development from prototyping through scalable manufacturing
Experiences/Education - Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Photonics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical discipline
  • 2+ years of relevant experience in laser processing, optics, photonics, or process development; relevant Master's or PhD research experience may be considered toward this requirement
  • Working knowledge of laser theory, laser platforms, and light-material interaction
  • Understanding of optical theory and light propagation
  • Hands-on experience with experimental work, technical troubleshooting, and data interpretation
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills
Experiences/Education - Desired
  • Master's degree or PhD in a relevant technical field
  • Experience designing and building prototype equipment, lab systems, or semi-automated stations
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks, Creo, or similar 3D CAD tools
  • Experience with DOE, SPC, Six Sigma, or other structured process analysis methods; proficiency with Minitab or JMP a plus
  • Experience translating laboratory or research work into scalable manufacturing processes; familiarity with fiber optic systems, controls, instrumentation, or basic programming a plus

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.  

The range for this position is $102,650.00 - $141,145.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. 

​

A job that shapes a life.  

Corning offers you the total package.  

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning’s total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.  
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That’s why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions. 


Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, Corning provides company matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan of up to 4% of pay when you contribute at least 6% of pay.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family. 

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.

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